Afib Medications for Reducing the Risk of Stroke

Atrial fibrillation is a disorder that can lead to further health complications if not dealt with appropriately. The main symptom of afib is an erratic and irregular heartbeat. While medicines can help to slow the heart rate, the presence of afib can increase the likelihood of blood clots that can cause a stroke. The greatest risk is that of a blood clot from another area of the body traveling to the brain which will then increase the chances of having a stroke. This is the reason that patients that suffer from afib are often prescribed a course of treatment that includes a blood thinner to decrease the chance of having a stroke.

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  1. Are there any alternatives to warfarin that have fewer side effects?
    Reply

    There is a new class of afib drugs with which many have had great success. Among these are Eliquis and Savaysa to name two. These drugs do not require regular blood work and do not interact with many common foods. It is important to note that this new class of anticoagulant drugs are not available as generics and many patients do find the cost prohibitive.

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  2. What is the best medication for reducing the risk of stroke in afib patients?
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    The most effective medicine to combat the occurrence of strokes in afib patients is a blood thinner. The most popular blood thinners currently on the market include The most prevalent blood thinners include heparin, warfarin, and aspirin. The incidence of stroke is of great concern for patients that suffer from afib. Beginning a course of medication such as heparin can help to reduce the chance of stroke in afib patients.

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  3. Are there any new blood thinners available for afib patients in addition to those mentioned above?
    Reply

    There is a group of blood thinners available that are fairly new, among those are Savaysa, Pradaxa, and Xarelto. It is always best to discuss the most appropriate medicine with one's physician.

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  4. Can warfarin and other blood thinners cause problematic bleeding?
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    It is understood that blood thinners will cause bleeding and other side effects. With that being said, warfarin and other blood thinners need to be monitored quite closely. Patients taking anticoagulants such as warfarin or heparin must be vigilant about their overall health and let their doctor know about any excessive bruising or bleeding.

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  5. Are stroke prevention drugs risky?
    Reply

    The most important direction to remember when taking a stroke prevention is that you cannot abruptly stop taking the medicine. If a patient wishes to cease taking an anticoagulant or other stroke prevention drug it is imperative that this action is undertaken only under a doctor's supervision.

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  6. What is LAAC and is it effective?
    Reply

    This minimally invasive procedure consists of removing a small pouch located in the uppermost left quadrant of the atrium. This procedure minimizes debilitating blood clots as most do originate in this upper left quadrant and then travel to the brain.

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  7. Is the Watchman procedure effective?
    Reply

    The watchman is a device that has had some good results in reducing the incidence of stroke. However, it must be noted that the new generation of anticoagulants is outperforming both the Watchman device as well as warfarin in clinical trials.

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  8. Do any dangerous side effects exist with blood thinners?
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    For female users of blood thinners there exists the possibility of excessive menstrual bleeding. Severe headaches are another symptom of a blood thinner side effect. It is also important to look out for general weakness and dizziness. Blood in the urine or bowels must also be addressed immediately. Coughing with blood or any red mucus may be a symptom of a more serious side effect. Any of the preceding issues should all be brought to the attention of a medical professional.

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